I saw my first Bouvier des Flandres in Des Moines, Iowa, he was 4 months old. My husband, Kenny, and I were at the Des Moines Kennel Club dog show waiting for the groups to begin when the puppy and his owner walked towards us. I told Kenny “We must have that puppy. He’s going to be a Best In Show dog”. This puppy later became Ch Deewal Candidate of Qupie (Bo). He was also the youngest Bouvier in the 1980’s to win a Best In Show.

My fascination and love for the breed began with Bo. Since then I have bred many title holding Bouviers under my registered kennel name “Tekhoe”, including my first bred BIS dog Ch Tekhoe’s Earning His Way (Ernie). I strive to breed healthy, versatile dogs that have the temperament to be good companions, as well as, successful show dogs. The dogs I have bred are involved in Obedience, Agility, Tracking, Herding, Carting, and Therapy work along with Confirmation. 

In my 27 years as a professional handler I had the privilege of showing many fine Bouviers, including Best In Show winners Ch Quiches Ivanhoe and Ch Gailbraith’s Eye Spy. I was also on the Board of Directors of the Professional Handlers Association for 4 years. I have now begun the next phase of my career in dogs as an AKC Judge. I am authorized to judge 12 breeds including my beloved Bouvier des Flandres.